Reflections on the HPE curriculum

What the finalised HPE curriculum could mean for ākonga, kaiako, schools and kura.

The finalised Health and Physical Education (HPE) curriculum for Years 0-10 provides schools and kura with an exciting opportunity to strengthen quality physical activity and movement in everyday teaching and learning.

For many schools and kura, this builds on what they already see every day: when ākonga have positive opportunities to move, they are more engaged, connected and ready to learn. Movement can support wellbeing, attendance and achievement, while helping young people develop skills, confidence and positive experiences that can last a lifetime.

With the HPE curriculum now finalised, we are exploring what these changes could look like in practice.

What stands out for us

Physical activity and movement are front and centre

A strong focus on enjoyment, confidence and movement skills is important. Positive experiences of movement can help ākonga discover activities that they enjoy, feel confident taking part in and build foundations for being active throughout their lives.

Wellbeing is central to learning

The HPE curriculum recognises the close relationship between physical activity, wellbeing and learning. Movement can contribute to physical, social, emotional and cognitive development. It can also support the learning environments kaiako are working hard to create.

Learning reflects local people and places

Schools and kura can connect learning through movement with their communities, local environments, cultures and the aspirations of ākonga and whānau. This can help make HPE more relevant, meaningful and engaging for young people.

Where the conversation goes next

Over the coming months, we will work alongside schools, kura and partners to explore how we can:

• help school leaders understand how quality physical activity and movement can contribute to their goals for ākonga wellbeing, engagement, attendance and achievement

• support kaiako to include movement across learning areas, so physical activity becomes a natural part of everyday teaching and learning

• grow confidence and capability in delivering quality HPE that reflects the curriculum and responds to the strengths and needs of all ākonga.

Some useful starting points

Here are some ways your school or kura can begin exploring what the HPE curriculum could mean in practice.

• Review the HPE curriculum and reflect on:

  • What feels familiar or similar to what you’re already teaching?

  • What is the biggest change you’ve identified for your HPE programme?

  • What would you most like support with across the finalised HPE curriculum?

  • What are you most looking forward to teaching in your learning space?

• Start a conversation among leaders and kaiako about the role physical activity and movement can play in supporting ākonga wellbeing, engagement, attendance and achievement.

• Explore the Active Bodies, Active Minds evidence and consider how it relates to what you see in your school and kura.

• Use the At a glance: Active schools and kura insights for primary and secondary schools to identify practical opportunities.

• Learn more about the Year 9 and 10 PE curriculum changes by attending a PENZ’s Big Day Out event in your region.